QUÉBEC CITY, May 18, 2017 /CNW Telbec/ - Sépaq's pilot project authorizing dogs, under certain conditions, in the Frontenac, Jacques-Cartier, and Oka national parks is entering its second year. We made no major changes to the project for 2017. The goal is still to measure the impact of their presence on visitors' experience and the natural environment.
Informing and raising awareness
The conduct of the person in charge of the dog is key to the project's successful development. In the course of this second year, Sépaq will continue to raise awareness and inform all of its clients, regardless of whether they own a dog. Throughout the coming season, on-site monitoring will continue in order to ensure compliance with the rules. Once the pilot project is completed at the end of 2018 and in light of the results, Sépaq will be able to make an informed decision for the future and for all national parks as to whether or not dogs should be allowed on site under certain conditions.
The rules, as well as information about the sites where dogs are currently allowed, are available on the Sépaq website at sepaq.com/animals
Good ambassadors
Upon arrival, visitors bringing along a dog will be invited to sign the Code of Conduct whereby they commit to respecting the applicable rules under the terms of the pilot project. A green scarf will be provided for the dog, indicating the commitment made by its owner.
Positive results
The first year of the pilot project authorizing dogs in the Frontenac, Jacques-Cartier, and Oka national parks was a success. No major incidents occurred. The monitoring carried out last summer through various methods indicated a high level of compliance with the rules, including keeping the dog on a leash at all times.
Please note that dogs are not allowed in any other national park. They are allowed in wildlife reserves and some tourist resorts, under certain conditions.
SOURCE Société des établissements de plein air du Québec
Source and further information: Lucie Boulianne, Communications Manager, Sépaq, 418-686-4875, [email protected]
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